Scenic Eclipse - Norway

Scenic Eclipse will set a new standard in ocean cruising in terms of luxury and technology when it launches in early 2019. With state-of-the-art safety features, Scenic will be able to unlock destinations never before accessible by an ocean cruiser.

Scenic Eclipse will set a new standard in ocean cruising in terms of luxury and technology when it launches in early 2019. With state-of-the-art safety features, Scenic will be able to unlock destinations never before accessible by an ocean cruiser. David Reyne samples some of the ports on Scenic’s new 13 day Norwegian Fjords cruise, where he experienced this crazily beautiful landscape that will make your jaw drop from shock at its exquisiteness.

With a maximum of only 228 guests, Scenic’s extraordinarily luxurious new discovery yacht, Scenic Eclipse will deliver you to the most beautiful and breathtaking locations when it launches in 2019. Every room on board is a verandah suite and with an almost 1:1 guest to staff ratio your every wish will be met. There will be up to 10 dining venues, spa and plunge pools, gym, yoga and pilates studio plus daily entertainment programme. For those wanting to extend their experience, there will be 2 helicopters and a submarine on board^. This ship really is a game changer in the world of ocean cruising.

Located in far north Europe, Norway is part of the Scandinavian Peninsula. The country is famed for its mountains and spectacular fjord coastline, as well as its history as a seafaring power. With a population of about 5 million people, it is the second least densely populated country in Europe.

David kicks off his Norwegian adventure in the story book town of Flam. The small village is surrounded by steep mountains, thundering waterfalls and narrow valleys. The main attraction is the fjords, so David hopped on to a boat to immerse himself within these spectacular natural wonders. Mining in the area has left a labyrinth of cave systems, now creatively transformed into the Magical White Caves of Gudvangen. The essence and colours of the northern lights have been captured to give you a beauty only the lights produce.

Another perfect way to revel in the beauty of this area is the Flam Railway. It has been named one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world and lasting only an hour, you will go from sea level at the Sognefjord to Myrdal mountain station at 867 metres above sea level. Constructed almost entirely from hand, the track is about 20 km’s long for you to enjoy the prettiest views of the remarkable fjords.

Stories of Vikings have been re-told over many years and this wild and wondrous episode in history is much celebrated in Norway with a recreated Viking Village in Gudvangen. This tourist village revives the history and culture of the Viking era, for guests to learn about and experience how the Vikings lived, worked and influenced the world around.

The Geiranger fjord is one of the longest, deepest and narrowest in the world as well as one of the most beautiful. Little towns like Geiranger are small enough to be discovered on foot, but an even easier option is to take one of Scenic’s e-bikes. One of the main attractions to check out is the ‘Seven Sisters’ Waterfall, which from a distance resembles the hair of seven women. On the opposite side of the fjord, you can see ‘The Suitor’, a waterfall shaped like a bottle. Legend says The Suitor proposed to the Seven Sisters several times and was continuously rebuffed, leaving the Seven Sisters unmarried.

David continued his adventure to Norway’s third largest city, Trondheim. This city is hardly a bustling metropolis, although it holds a very special place in the history and culture of this fascinating country. This city was the first Norwegian capital and is still the city where kings receive their ceremonial blessing. Even though one fifth of Trondheim’s population are students, giving this city an edgy modern vibe, all around are reminders of its significant historical role.

The Nidaros Cathedral was built from 1070 over the burial site of Saint Olav, the cathedral was completed around 1300. The architectural style of the cathedral is Romanesque and Gothic, and is a guaranteed jaw dropper. The inside of the Cathedral, is equally as impressive as the outside, with the organ inside is one of the largest Cathedral organs in Europe.

There is certainly no better way to experience the majesty of this spectacular country than aboard the luxurious 6-star Scenic Eclipse.

^ 2 Helicopters only in Antarctica. Helicopter and submarine excursions are an additional cost and subject to regulatory approval.

Extra Info:

Here are some other great Scenic adventures in Europe:

Portugal – Discover Portugal’s picturesque seaside capital of Lisbon and the charming port city of Porto.